private investigator

How Do I Find a Missing Person?

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missing personFinding a missing person can be an overwhelming and emotionally charged experience. Whether it’s a loved one, a friend, or someone you know, the uncertainty and fear can be paralyzing. ASG Investigations offers expert guidance on how to approach this challenging task systematically and effectively.

1. Gather Information and Document Details

The first step in locating a missing person is to gather as much information as possible. Document everything you know about the person, including:

  • Full name, age, and physical description (height, weight, hair color, eye color, etc.).
  • Recent photographs.
  • Last known whereabouts and the time they were last seen.
  • Any known medical conditions or medications they might be taking.
  • Details of their routine, habits, and any significant changes in behavior.

Having this comprehensive information readily available will be invaluable to both law enforcement and private investigators.

2. Contact Law Enforcement

Report the missing person to local law enforcement as soon as possible. Provide them with all the documented details and any other relevant information. The police can issue alerts, such as an AMBER Alert for missing children or a Silver Alert for missing elderly individuals, and begin their investigation.

3. Utilize Social Media and Online Resources

Social media can be a powerful tool in spreading awareness and gathering information. Post about the missing person on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, including photos and descriptions. Encourage friends, family, and followers to share the posts to widen the search area.

Online missing person databases and forums can also be useful. Websites like the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) and the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) offer resources and platforms to help locate missing individuals.

4. Conduct Local Searches

Organize local search efforts with the help of friends, family, and volunteers. Focus on areas the missing person frequented or places they were last seen. Hand out flyers with the person’s photo and description, and speak to people in the vicinity who might have seen or heard something.

5. Hire a Private Investigator

If initial efforts don’t yield results, consider hiring a professional. Private investigators have specialized skills, resources, and experience in locating missing persons. ASG Investigations, for example, employs various techniques such as surveillance, database searches, and interviews to track down missing individuals efficiently.

6. Keep Detailed Records

Throughout the search, keep detailed records of all actions taken, including dates, times, places searched, people contacted, and any information gathered. This organized approach ensures no efforts are duplicated and can be crucial for the ongoing investigation.

Conclusion

Finding a missing person requires a combination of diligent effort, organized planning, and leveraging available resources. Starting with thorough information gathering and involving law enforcement, followed by utilizing social media, conducting local searches, and potentially hiring a private investigator, can significantly improve the chances of locating the missing individual.

ASG Investigations understands the emotional toll and urgency of finding a missing person. With professional expertise and compassionate support, they can assist in navigating this challenging process. If you’re facing the distressing situation of a missing loved one, hire a private investigator from ASG Investigations to help you in your search.

Hiring a Private Investigator: What to Expect and How It Works

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When you suspect that something is amiss in your personal or professional life, hiring a private investigator (PI) can provide the clarity and evidence you need. At ASG Investigations, we understand that taking this step can be daunting. Here’s what you can expect from the process and how it works.

Initial Consultation

The first step is an initial consultation. This meeting, often free of charge, allows you to discuss your concerns and objectives with a professional investigator. During this consultation, the PI will ask detailed questions to understand your situation fully. They will explain the services they offer, potential costs, and what you can expect in terms of results. This is your opportunity to ask questions and gauge whether you feel comfortable working with the investigator.

Defining the Scope

Once you decide to proceed, the next step is defining the scope of the investigation. The PI will work with you to outline specific goals and establish a plan of action. This may include surveillance, background checks, digital forensics, or other investigative techniques. Clear communication is crucial at this stage to ensure that both you and the investigator have a mutual understanding of the objectives and methods.

Conducting the Investigation

The PI will then begin the investigation. Depending on the case, this may involve various activities such as monitoring a subject’s movements, analyzing digital communications, or interviewing witnesses. Experienced investigators use a combination of skills and tools, including surveillance equipment, databases, and fieldwork, to gather information discreetly and efficiently. Throughout the process, the PI will keep you informed about progress and any significant findings.

Collecting Evidence

One of the primary roles of a PI is to collect and document evidence. This can include photographs, videos, audio recordings, documents, or other tangible proof that supports your case. PIs are trained to ensure that the evidence they gather is admissible in court, should you need it for legal proceedings.

Reporting Findings

At the conclusion of the investigation, the PI will compile a comprehensive report detailing their findings. This report will include all relevant evidence and a summary of the investigation. The PI will also be available to discuss the results with you, answer any questions, and provide advice on possible next steps.

Confidentiality and Professionalism

Professionalism and confidentiality are paramount in private investigations. Reputable PIs like those at ASG Investigations adhere to strict ethical standards, ensuring your privacy is protected throughout the process. All information shared and discovered during the investigation remains confidential.

Conclusion

Hiring a private investigator can be a crucial step in uncovering the truth and making informed decisions. At ASG Investigations, we are committed to providing thorough, discreet, and professional investigative services. If you’re considering hiring a PI, reach out to us for a consultation. We’re here to help you navigate this challenging time with expertise and care.

6 Industries that Require a Background Check

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background checkBackground checks are a vital component of the hiring process in many industries, ensuring safety, security, and integrity. ASG Investigations, a leading private investigation company, explores six industries where background checks are essential:

  1. Healthcare: With access to sensitive patient information and direct interaction with vulnerable individuals, healthcare providers require thorough background checks to screen for criminal history, professional licensure, and disciplinary actions.

  2. Education: Schools, colleges, and educational institutions conduct background checks on teachers, administrators, and staff to safeguard students and maintain a secure learning environment. Checks may include verifying credentials, criminal records, and child abuse clearances.

  3. Finance and Banking: Due to the sensitive nature of financial transactions and access to confidential data, employees in the finance and banking sector undergo rigorous background checks to mitigate risks of fraud, theft, and regulatory violations.

  4. Government and Law Enforcement: Government agencies and law enforcement departments enforce strict background check requirements for employees, contractors, and applicants to ensure trustworthiness, reliability, and suitability for positions of public trust.

  5. Childcare and Elderly Care: Background checks are crucial in childcare facilities, daycare centers, and eldercare services to protect vulnerable populations from potential harm. Checks may include criminal history, child abuse clearances, and reference checks.

  6. Transportation and Logistics: Employees in transportation and logistics industries, such as trucking companies, airlines, and shipping firms, undergo background checks to verify driving records, criminal history, and compliance with safety regulations.

ASG Investigations specializes in conducting comprehensive background checks tailored to the specific needs of clients across various industries. With access to extensive databases and resources, ASG Investigations delivers accurate, reliable results that enable employers to make informed hiring decisions and mitigate risks.

By partnering with ASG Investigations for background screening services, businesses can ensure compliance with industry regulations, protect assets and personnel, and maintain a safe and secure work environment. Contact ASG Investigations today to learn more about our customized background check solutions and safeguard your organization’s interests.

Top 10 Questions to ask a Private Investigator

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questions to ask a private investigator
When seeking the services of a private investigator, asking the right questions is crucial to ensure they’re the right fit for your needs. Here are the top ten questions to ask when hiring a private investigator:

  1. Experience and Credentials: Inquire about their experience in handling cases similar to yours. Ask about their licensing, certifications, and affiliations with professional associations.

  2. Specializations: Determine if they specialize in specific types of investigations, such as infidelity, background checks, corporate investigations, or legal matters.

  3. Approach and Methodology: Understand their investigative approach. Ask about the techniques, technology, and methods they employ to handle cases effectively.

  4. Confidentiality: Ensure they prioritize confidentiality. Discuss how they handle sensitive information and maintain discretion throughout the investigation.

  5. Legal Compliance: Verify their adherence to legal and ethical standards. Ask how they ensure that investigations are conducted within the boundaries of the law.

  6. Communication and Updates: Inquire about their communication process. Understand how often they provide updates or reports on the progress of the investigation.

  7. Cost and Fees: Discuss their fee structure and payment terms upfront. Clarify what is included in the fees and if there are additional expenses to anticipate.

  8. References and Testimonials: Request references or client testimonials. Hearing about previous clients’ experiences can provide insight into their professionalism and success rate.

  9. Timeline: Discuss the expected timeline for the investigation. While some cases may vary in complexity, having an estimated timeframe can help manage expectations.

  10. Results and Reporting: Ask about the deliverables. Inquire how they present their findings and if they offer comprehensive reports or documentation at the conclusion of the investigation.

Remember, establishing a rapport and feeling comfortable with the investigator is crucial. Trust your instincts and assess their responses to determine if they align with your expectations and needs.

Choosing the right private investigator involves thorough research and asking pertinent questions. By addressing these key points, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of their expertise, professionalism, and suitability for handling your specific case.

Ready to get started? Contact ASG Investigations in Southeastern Michigan for all your private investigations needs.

6 Signs You Need To Conduct a Corporate Investigation

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corporate investigations for safeguarding business

In the corporate world, maintaining integrity and security is essential for sustainable growth and success. However, various internal and external factors can compromise a company’s stability and reputation. Conducting a corporate investigation is a proactive measure that can protect businesses from potential risks and ensure a safe and ethical work environment. Here are six crucial signs that indicate the need for a corporate investigation.

  1. Suspicious Financial Activities: Unexplained financial discrepancies, irregularities in accounting records, or sudden fluctuations in revenue can indicate potential financial fraud within a company. If there are suspicions of embezzlement, money laundering, or other fraudulent activities, conducting a thorough financial investigation is crucial to identify the root cause and prevent further monetary losses.

  2. Intellectual Property Theft: A sudden decline in the company’s intellectual property (IP) value or instances of unauthorized use of proprietary information by employees or competitors can be indicative of intellectual property theft. A corporate investigation can uncover the source of the breach and help implement stringent measures to safeguard valuable trade secrets and intellectual assets.

  3. Employee Misconduct: Reports of employee misconduct, such as harassment, discrimination, or violation of company policies, should prompt an immediate investigation. Identifying and addressing instances of employee misconduct can foster a healthy work environment and prevent potential legal liabilities or damage to the company’s reputation.

  4. Breach of Confidential Information: Instances of leaked sensitive information, client data breaches, or unauthorized sharing of confidential company information can severely impact a company’s credibility and trustworthiness. A corporate investigation can help determine the source of the breach and implement robust data protection protocols to prevent future security lapses.

  5. Suspicious Partner or Vendor Activities: Unusual behavior or suspicious activities by business partners, vendors, or suppliers can pose significant risks to a company’s operations and reputation. Conducting a thorough investigation can reveal any potential fraudulent dealings or unethical practices, allowing the company to safeguard its interests and maintain ethical business relationships.

  6. Competitive Intelligence Threats: Unexplained changes in market share, pricing strategies, or product offerings that seem to align with a competitor’s actions may indicate potential competitive intelligence threats. A corporate investigation can uncover any illicit competitive practices or unauthorized access to sensitive business information, enabling the company to implement effective countermeasures and protect its competitive edge.

In conclusion, recognizing the signs that necessitate a corporate investigation is crucial for safeguarding a company’s assets, reputation, and overall stability. By addressing suspicious financial activities, intellectual property theft, employee misconduct, breach of confidential information, suspicious partner or vendor activities, and competitive intelligence threats, companies can proactively mitigate risks and ensure a secure and ethical business environment. Conducting regular corporate investigations not only protects the company from potential liabilities but also fosters a culture of integrity and transparency, driving long-term success and sustainability.

Contact ASG today to discuss your need for corporate investigations.

4 Ways Private Investigation Firms Help Attorneys

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Private investigation firms play a vital role in the legal world by providing attorneys with essential support and information to build strong cases and ensure justice is served. Whether it’s a criminal defense case, a civil lawsuit, or any other legal matter, private investigators offer valuable assistance. In this article, we’ll explore four key ways in which private investigation firms help attorneys achieve their goals.

  1. Gathering Evidence and Information:

    Private investigators are skilled at gathering crucial evidence and information that can make or break a case. They use a wide range of techniques, such as surveillance, background checks, and forensic analysis, to collect facts and data that may not be readily available through public records or witness testimonies.

    In criminal defense cases, for example, private investigators may interview witnesses, reexamine crime scenes, or analyze forensic evidence to uncover new leads or inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case. For civil cases, investigators can dig deep into financial records, business transactions, and other relevant documents to support the attorney’s claims.

    This evidence can be instrumental in building a compelling case strategy and strengthening an attorney’s argument in court.

  2. Locating Witnesses and Experts:

    In many legal cases, locating witnesses and experts can be a challenging task. Witnesses may be reluctant to come forward, or their whereabouts may be unknown. Private investigators have the skills and resources to track down and interview witnesses, even those who have moved or are trying to remain anonymous.

    Additionally, private investigators can help attorneys find and vet expert witnesses who can provide authoritative opinions on complex issues. Whether it’s a medical expert, a financial analyst, or a technical specialist, having the right expert witness can be a game-changer in a legal case.

  3. Surveillance and Observation:

    Surveillance is a powerful tool used by private investigators to monitor the activities of individuals involved in a case. This is especially valuable in cases involving personal injury claims, workers’ compensation fraud, or suspected infidelity.

    Attorneys rely on private investigators to discreetly observe and document the actions of parties involved, ensuring that their claims are valid and supported by concrete evidence. Surveillance can reveal fraudulent behavior or provide insight into a person’s daily activities, which can be crucial in both civil and criminal cases.

  4. Background Checks and Due Diligence:

    Private investigators conduct thorough background checks and due diligence investigations to provide attorneys with comprehensive profiles of individuals and entities involved in a case. This information helps attorneys make informed decisions, assess risks, and identify potential vulnerabilities.

    Background checks may reveal past criminal records, financial history, litigation history, and other relevant details that can impact the case strategy. Due diligence investigations are also crucial in business-related cases, such as mergers and acquisitions or contract disputes, where understanding the backgrounds and reputations of involved parties is essential.

In conclusion, private investigation firms are indispensable partners for attorneys in various legal matters. Their expertise in evidence gathering, witness location, surveillance, and due diligence greatly enhances an attorney’s ability to build strong cases and advocate effectively for their clients. By leveraging the skills and resources of private investigators, attorneys can ensure that justice is served, whether in criminal defense, civil litigation, or other areas of the legal profession. The collaboration between attorneys and private investigators underscores the importance of a thorough and professional approach to legal representation.

Contact ASG Investigations for discreet and professional investigative services.

Time Card Fraud: How to Catch a Cheating Employee

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Employee theft costs American businesses an average of $50 billion annually. But it’s not just about property, financial, or inventory theft. According to the American Payroll Association, time theft is also an issue that can cost a single business up to 7% of its annual payroll costs. And in some cases, that may be enough to hire additional or replacement staff. Fortunately, there are some practical ways to catch a cheating employee. 

Keep Your Employees on Their Toes

If you suspect employee time card fraud, unexpected measures may be required to throw a wrench into the fraudster’s plans. One option is to run unannounced checks to confirm employee attendance. The easiest way to ensure compliance is to inform employees of the random checks but not tell them when they’ll occur. If your employees really want to be there for the right reasons, there will be nothing to hide or cover. Catching employees off-guard can help ensure your business is always run by the right people. 

Implement an Internal Reporting System

Encourage all employees to anonymously report any observed or suspected fraud. Management may need to cross-check such reports to ensure they’re all legitimate, but anonymous reporting can give insights into consistently problematic patterns or areas of concern. Chances are, most reports will allow employees to make authentic reports without fear of retaliation.

Cross-Check with Other Records

Time cards aren’t the only options for verifying expected or scheduled employee hours. Compare the time cards with client records, project records, and security logs to see who came and went or who stayed through their shifts. HR departments or managers may need to hire employees or create specific projects or positions to cover this if fraud is extensive enough. It may take some extra time and work to compare those records, but it could save a lot of money in the long run. 

Implement Technology 

Technological advancements in computer applications can improve business dealings all around. But special applications, programs, and even internal logging devices can make timecard logging and recording a breeze. Data analysis can also easily catch discrepancies in scheduling records. If specific programs aren’t reasonable for the company’s budget or industry, apply apps or other options to record and analyze the data for you. Even hiring a company or individual can reduce HR headaches and eliminate potentially pricey mistakes. 

Hire a Confidential Private Investigator

Consider hiring outside help to save time, headaches, and internal resources. Competent private investigators have access to the newest updated tech devices, so they can easily analyze the necessary data, apps, and programs needed to highlight scheduling discrepancies and discover employee fraud. A private investigator can conduct personal surveillance, set up surveillance cameras throughout the business, or record data through business apps, programs, and computer entries. They can also perform spot checks or audits, compare various records, and continually run background checks to ensure you’re keeping the right staff on the payroll. Catching a cheating employee doesn’t have to be an internal pain.  Be sure to contact ASG Investigations when you’re ready to discuss your needs with a confidential private investigator. 

Why You Should Hire a Private Investigator to Investigate Workers’ Comp Claims

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workers' compensation claims, hire a private investigator

 

 

Approximately 5 million employees file workers’ comp claims annually, and those claims individually average $41,000. Hiring a private investigator to investigate workers’ compensation claims can provide several benefits for employers and insurance companies. But what are some reasons why you might consider hiring a private investigator for this purpose?

Uncover Fraudulent Claims

Unfortunately, workers’ compensation fraud is a significant issue that costs businesses and insurers a significant amount of money each year. In fact, according to the National Safety Council, workers’ injuries can cost a business over $100,000 per year. Private investigators are skilled at gathering evidence, conducting surveillance, and interviewing witnesses, which can help uncover fraudulent claims. By identifying fraudulent claims early on, you can save your organization from unnecessary expenses and deter others from attempting to defraud the system.

Ensure the Legitimacy of Claims

While not all workers’ compensation claims are fraudulent, hiring a private investigator can help determine the legitimacy of a claim. Investigators can collect evidence, review medical records, interview witnesses, and provide an unbiased assessment of the claim’s validity. This can prevent you from paying out on baseless or exaggerated claims and ensure that the benefits go to those who genuinely deserve them. Note: only up to 6% of claims are found to be fraudulent, but that can still cause financial issues for your business. 

Mitigate Risk and Liability

Conducting a thorough investigation of workers’ compensation claims can help you mitigate risk and limit potential liability. Private investigators can identify any factors contributing to future accidents or injuries as well, such as unsafe working conditions, policy violations, or negligence. By addressing these issues promptly, you can reduce the likelihood of further incidents and protect your organization from potential lawsuits. 

Gather Evidence for Legal Proceedings

In cases where workers’ compensation claims lead to litigation, private investigators can play a crucial role in gathering evidence and building a strong defense. Their expertise in collecting information, conducting background checks, and interviewing witnesses can provide valuable support to legal teams. By having a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances surrounding a claim, you can better prepare your case and potentially achieve more favorable outcomes in court. This, of course, would also result in financial benefits and a safer reputation for your company. 

Save Time and Resources

Conducting thorough investigations can be time-consuming and resource-intensive. Outsourcing this task to a private investigator allows you to free up your internal resources to focus on core business operations. Private investigators are experienced professionals who know how to efficiently gather information, follow leads, and compile comprehensive reports, saving you time and effort.

It’s important to note that when hiring a private investigator, you should ensure that they operate within the bounds of the law and adhere to ethical standards. Additionally, consult with legal professionals to ensure that the investigation process aligns with applicable regulations and requirements in your jurisdiction. Be sure to contact us when you’re ready to hire a private investigator and avoid internal headaches for your hiring, managerial, or HR team. 

What a Private Investigation Asset Investigation Can Find

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A professional private investigator can handle a variety of investigation needs, but an asset investigation takes it to the next level. A private investigation asset investigation is a type of investigation that aims to uncover an individual’s financial assets, liabilities, and net worth. But what are some things that a private investigation asset investigation can find?

Bank Accounts

Business acquisitions, divorce cases, and even child custody claims may require a deep dig to go beyond someone’s claims and discover the hidden skeletons they’re trying to conceal. A private investigator can conduct a bank account search to identify all bank accounts held by the individual. This can include checking accounts, savings accounts, and investment accounts such as stocks, pensions, and other mutual funds or retirement accounts held by the bank or split between financial institutions.

Real Estate

Real estate prices inflated at baffling rates in the early 2020’s. Even though those prices have stabilized somewhat, the industry is still maintaining an impressive 5-7% annual growth rate. So it comes as no surprise that property owners may try to minimize the extent of their personal real estate assets. A private investigator can conduct a thorough property search to identify all real estate owned by the individual, including homes, rental properties, and commercial properties. And that can result in significantly higher settlements for a claimant or more extensive capital prospects for a business venture. 

Vehicles

Owned or leased vehicles, both personal and professional, can add to someone’s overall net worth and lead to higher court claims or professional capital interest. Yet, some of those assets are often “accidentally” undisclosed in legal drafts or intentionally omitted altogether. A private investigator can conduct a vehicle search to identify all vehicles owned by the individual, including cars, trucks, and recreational vehicles.

Business Interests

The right business deals can make or break a company’s overall success, so it’s crucial to know the full extent of what assets are on the table before finalizing any mergers or acquisitions. A private investigator can conduct a business search to identify all businesses owned by the individual, including partnerships, corporations, and sole proprietorships.

Securities and Investments

Not all legal financial holdings are held or secured through a bank or credit union, but they are all registered somewhere. A private investigator can conduct a securities search to identify all securities and investments owned by the individual, including stocks, bonds, and mutual funds.

Liabilities

Over 340 million Americans are currently in debt. So it’s crucial to know what extra financial responsibilities you may potentially be taking on in any serious relationship, whether that’s a personal or professional venture. Asking outright is a good start, but people may not know the extent of their debt. They could also be too embarrassed to disclose its entirety. A private investigator can identify any outstanding debts, loans, and other financial obligations that the individual may have so at least you’re aware.

By conducting an asset investigation, a private investigator can provide valuable information about an individual’s financial situation, which can be useful in various contexts, including divorce cases, lawsuits, and business transactions. Give us a call when you’re ready to discuss your needs with the right professional private investigator.

5 Things PI’s Look for When Investigating Insurance Fraud

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investigating insurance fraud asg investigationsInsurance fraud is a serious crime that costs insurance companies and policyholders billions of dollars each year. Private investigators ( or PIs) can play a critical role in uncovering insurance fraud. But how do they go about doing that? Here are five major things PIs look for when investigating insurance fraud. 

Suspicious Claims

Experienced private investigators are well-versed regarding a variety of claims. Therefore, not all PIs are equal and there is some truth to the saying ‘you get what you pay for’. A budget PI may sound like a great deal, but consider their qualifications when it counts. Qualified PIs look for claims that are suspicious or appear to be fraudulent. This includes claims for injuries or damages that seem exaggerated, claims that are filed very soon after a policy is purchased, or claims that are filed immediately before a policy is set to expire.

Inconsistencies in Claimants’ Statements 

Highly trained and experienced private investigators know how to scrutinize statements made by claimants to identify inconsistencies or discrepancies. They will look for changes in the claimant’s story or for discrepancies between the claimant’s statement and the evidence. Once discovered, they can compile their own case of insurance fraud or at least add competent claims and factual statements to an existing one. 

Surveillance Evidence

Private investigators will conduct surveillance on claimants to gather evidence that may support or refute the claim. They may use audio, video, or photographic evidence to document the claimant’s activities and to determine whether they are engaging in activities that are inconsistent with their injury or disability claim. A good PI has access to high-tech devices and surveillance equipment to which even the newest mass-produced Apple products can’t compare. And they know exactly what’s admissible and accepted by the local courts. 

Medical Records Reviews

Approximately 30% of medical claims are denied. But up to 60% of appealed medical claims are won. Courts are stringent when it comes to medical evidence, and medical practitioners have no problem hiring high-powered legal teams to keep their names and reputations out of the mud. A competent PI will review medical records to look for evidence that the claimant may be exaggerating or fabricating injuries. They may also look for evidence of pre-existing conditions that could be contributing to the claimant’s injuries.

Background Investigations

Anyone with access to the internet can access online background sites that offer basic information beyond a paywall. Most of that provided information is identical regardless of the site used, and the majority of information is public domain. Private investigators have access to private databases not open or available to those who don’t work in the legal industry. A PI will conduct a background investigation on the claimant to look for any past criminal activity or history of fraudulent insurance claims. They may also investigate the claimant’s financial history to see if there are any indications of financial difficulties that could motivate them to commit insurance fraud. Be sure to contact us when you’re ready to talk to an experienced private investigator who is thorough, detail-oriented, and diligent in their efforts to uncover fraudulent activity.